Bombers name new head coach
With three months to go before puck drop for the 2026–27 season, the Sioux Lookout Bombers have announced their new head coach.
Joel Litt-Jukes will take the reigns next season. He played three years of junior hockey with the Saskatoon Royals of the PJHL from 2017-2020.
The 26-year old hails from Moose Jaw, SK and studied psychology at the University of Saskatchewan before moving to Calgary to pursue coaching full-time.
“Out in Calgary I spent the last five years coaching various programs of all age groups,” Litt-Jukes said. “I’ve been head coaching both a AA program and a junior program at the exact same time the last few years — the schedule got a little busy there of course, but I think that hopefully can speak to the passion I have for what I do. I don’t think many people are going to be coaching two teams at once if they don’t love it.”
Litt-Jukes says he cares about building a culture in the locker room and establishing relationships with his players.
“You have to have ambition, work ethic and accountability. I think those words define not only good hockey players but good people. I think if you can instill those values in yourself you’re going to be successful no matter what,” he said.
He says his background in psychology helps him empower players to have confidence and courage on the ice.
“I’m going to come in and make sure the players have the courage to go out and make plays,” he said.
Litt-Jukes is the second head coach in the four-year history of the Bombers Junior A program. He steps up after 2024 SIJHL champion Carson Johnstone left the team to pursue other opportunities for himself and his family, per a Facebook post from the team.
“Carson has served as the Bombers head coach since our inaugural season and led us to our first Bill Salonen championship. We cannot thank him enough for his immeasurable contributions to our program and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” said Bombers President James Brohm. “He has made an impact on our community working with young players at his breakfast sessions and one-on-one sessions to help guide them in their hockey journeys. So from myself and the Bombers organization, thank you Carson.”
The 2026-2027 SIJHL season starts in September.
